By Peter Sharland

The Portuguese has spoken about the expectations of his current job and the chances of his side reaching the tournament in Brazil

Carlos Queiroz believes Iran can qualify for World Cup 2014 but has reminded his players that they need to stay focused in the final few matches.

Iran have not qualified for a World Cup since 2006 and the former Portugal and Real Madrid boss is well aware of the expectations that are on him and his players, but praised them for their continued development over the past two years.

He told Fifa.com: “Pressure is just part of my life, and part of football. For me, it encourages you to obtain good results. It goes without saying that every Iranian dreams of experiencing the World Cup again.

“It’s been good. As far as our progress is concerned, we’re been improving steadily up to this point.

“There are three matches left to play – we’re going to have to hang in there right until the last kick of the ball to book our ticket, because the race is just so tight.”

Iran currently sit in third place in their qualification group behind Uzbekistan and South Korea on seven points.